Go Back

Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Smoky Cheese and Herbs

This dish features tender chicken breasts carefully carved to create a pocket, then filled with a smoky, cheesy blend accented with fresh herbs and garlic. Baked until golden and crispy on the outside with gooey, melted cheese inside, it offers a satisfying combination of crispness and juiciness. The preparation highlights simple techniques that turn basic ingredients into a comforting yet elevated main course.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken breasts preferably thick and even
  • 1 cup cheese (mozzarella or provolone) shredded
  • 1 cup fresh spinach or herbs chopped
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for smoky depth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for brushing
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest optional, for brightness
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Sharp paring knife
  • Baking sheet with parchment paper
  • Meat thermometer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Basting brush

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Lay each chicken breast flat on a cutting board and gently slice a horizontal pocket into the thick side, being careful not to cut all the way through.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded cheese, chopped herbs or spinach, minced garlic, smoked paprika, lemon zest (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper, then mix well.
  4. Stuff each chicken pocket generously with the cheese mixture, pressing lightly to pack it in without tearing the meat.
  5. Brush the exterior of each stuffed chicken breast with olive oil using a basting brush, ensuring all sides are coated for crisping.
  6. Place the stuffed chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven until golden brown and cooked through, about 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
  7. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes, allowing the juices to settle.
  8. Slice into the chicken to reveal the melted, cheesy stuffing inside, and serve hot with your favorite sides.

Notes

For extra flavor, sprinkle additional smoked paprika or fresh herbs before serving. Adjust stuffing quantities to your preference for more cheesiness or herbs.